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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is the overarching philosophy guiding his administration’s policies, which focus on restoring confidence, attracting investments, and empowering citizens through various initiatives.

Renewed hope” means a revived or re-established sense of optimism and belief in a positive future, often after a period of difficulty or disappointment.

It signifies regaining hope and confidence, whether through personal effort, external programs, or spiritual means, to overcome challenges and strive for a better life.

For Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, Director General of Energy Commission of Nigeria, (ECN) his devotion and dedication to attracting investments in the energy sector and striving to put the sector in the global map is highly commendable.

As a dedicated believer in the Renewed Hope Agenda and it’s benefits to Nigerians, he has made exploits in repositioning the energy sector.

Recently, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi recorded a great feat and landmark achievement as he finalized partnership between Nigeria and the World’s Largest Solar Panel Production Company LONGi, At its Headquarters In China.

Nigeria concluded a strategic partnership through the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), with the World’s Largest Solar Panel Production Company, LONGi, in Xi’an, Shaanxi China.

The Nigerian delegation, the Energy Commission of Nigeria ECN led by its Director-General, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi was received by President Boshen Zhong and Vice President Li Wenxue of LONGi, were taken on a tour of one of the world’s largest solar cell production facilities.

The visit follows the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between ECN and LONGi in London earlier this year.

While on the visit, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi advanced discussions on the establishment of a 500–1000 MW solar panel production factory in Nigeria; a move set to significantly boost the nation’s renewable energy sector.

ECN’s presentation highlighted Africa’s growing market and the demand potential for solar mini-grids and also, emphasized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Solarisation Policy, which seeks to accelerate access to clean energy across Nigeria.

This is as LONGi expressed strong interest in investing in Nigeria and demonstrated readiness to advance concrete plans for the construction of the factory.

This partnership marks a historic milestone for the Nigerian renewable energy landscape and aligns with national efforts to expand local solar manufacturing capacity.

The ECN which is working assiduously to ensure that Nigerians enjoy improved electricity, a vision of the Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha led management to deliver on the Renewed Hope Initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s policy on solarization, looks forward to working closely with LONGi and the Federal Government to realize this transformative initiative, which will create jobs, enhance energy security, and drive sustainable development across the country.

In another positive development and constant pursuit of delivering the benefits of Renewed Hope Agenda to the people, the Energy Commission Of Nigeria through its DG, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi signed a Memorandum of Understanding with UNIDACO Limited, London, for an initial €100 million investment in Nigeria’s energy sector.

The DG of ECN who disclosed this said, “The signing, held at the House of Lords, London, during the Renewed Hope Global Dialogue (UK Edition), marks a major milestone in advancing Nigeria’s clean energy transition.”

According to him, “This partnership underscores our commitment to expanding renewable energy access, driving innovation, and strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to harness clean technologies.

“Moreover, it aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly on sustainable energy solutions as a catalyst for economic growth and development.

“This distinctive MoU was signed in the presence of dignitaries and investors of repute from Nigeria and across the world.

“Overall, this milestone reaffirms our resolve to deepen global partnerships that will accelerate Nigeria’s energy transformation. Together, we are charting a new course toward an inclusive, energy-secure, and prosperous nation built on innovation and collaboration. The DG, Energy Commission revealed.

With ardent adherents of Renewed Hope Agenda like Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, DG of ECN, the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is sure walking the talk of Renewed Hope Agenda.

By Aminu Hussaini

Kano State is crucial to Nigeria’s security and economic future, serving as a shield and gateway. The state’s strategic location and economic significance is important to national stability. Barrister Aminu Hussaini Sagagi in this write up examines why Kano’s strategic security and a major economic driver, deserves a dedicated federal funding, with infrastructure investment, and institutionalization as a special Federal Security and Economic Status.

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In the unfolding dynamics of Nigeria’s national security and economic future, Kano State stands as both a shield and a gateway — a critical axis whose stability is indispensable to the peace and prosperity of the nation. The strategic need for the Federal Government to accord Kano a special Federal Security and Economic Status has become not just desirable but urgent, given the State’s centrality as a security buffer zone and a commercial hub vital to Nigeria’s regional and continental aspirations.

This urgency has been underscored by recent reports of bandit incursions in Shanono Local Government Area, signaling the growing fragility of the northern security belt. These attacks are a stark reminder that even relatively stable states like Kano are not immune to the spillover of violence from surrounding regions. The time to act is now — before the ripple of insecurity breaches Kano’s long-standing resilience.

A Strategic Security Buffer in Northern Nigeria

Kano occupies a rare and irreplaceable position in Nigeria’s security architecture. It sits at the crossroads of the North-West, North-East, and North-Central regions, all corridors of complex conflicts involving insurgency, banditry and communal tension.

For over a decade, Kano has served as a stabilizing buffer, preventing the contagion of insecurity from neighbouring states such as Kaduna, Zamfara, Katsina, Bauchi and Yobe. This function has not happened by accident; it is the product of community vigilance, responsible governance and proactive local collaboration with federal security agencies.

But with the recent rise in cross-border bandit activity, especially the attacks in Shanono, the State’s strategic insulation faces serious strain. If Kano’s stability falters, the humanitarian and economic consequences could be national in scale. This is why the Federal Government must act swiftly to institutionalize Kano’s protection through a clearly defined federal security framework.

A Federal Security and Economic Designation

Kano’s significance transcends local or regional boundaries. Its stability underpins national cohesion, northern economic productivity, and inter-state commerce.

What the moment demands is an official Federal Security and Economic Designation — a framework that integrates military, intelligence and economic interventions under a unified federal structure, akin to the model used for the Niger Delta and the Federal Capital Territory. Such a designation would ensure dedicated federal funding, enhanced security coordination and infrastructural investment aligned with Kano’s role as Nigeria’s northern economic hub.

Economic Gateway to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)

Kano is more than a domestic stronghold; it is Nigeria’s gateway to continental trade. With the operationalization of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Kano’s position as a commercial and logistics hub becomes a matter of national strategy.

The State connects Nigeria directly to the Sahel and North Africa through well-established trade routes and emerging infrastructure like the Kano–Maradi railway, Aminu Kano International Airport and the Dala Inland Dry Port. To ignore Kano’s economic potential is to undermine Nigeria’s leverage in the AfCFTA framework.

A Federal Economic Zone status would strengthen these corridors, attract investment and institutionalize Kano as a major driver of Nigeria’s regional export economy.

A Moment of Opportunity under a Progressive State Administration

This is also a moment of historic alignment between opportunity and leadership. Kano today is governed by an aggressively progressive administration, under His Excellency, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf — one that has demonstrated readiness to reform, innovate and partner constructively with the Federal Government.

Seizing this window of cooperation is crucial. A federal intervention now will not only reinforce Kano’s stability but also amplify the developmental momentum already being driven by the State Government in areas such as education, urban renewal, industrial revitalization and youth empowerment.

Waiting for instability to escalate before responding would be a costly mistake. The Shanono incident should be treated as a warning shot — not an isolated occurrence. The Federal Government must act with dispatch, leveraging the synergy with Kano’s reform-minded administration to secure and strengthen the State’s strategic role in Nigeria’s future.

Why Federal Designation is Essential

Granting Kano this dual status — as a Federal Security and Economic Zone — will institutionalize federal security coordination in the State; protect national industrial and commercial assets; enhance cross-border trade and anti-smuggling frameworks; strengthen Nigeria’s northern logistics corridor for the AfCFTA; and reinforce national unity through shared economic prosperity.

Such a designation could be achieved via Presidential Executive Order or Legislative Action, providing a durable legal basis for sustained federal engagement and investment.

Conclusion

Kano’s stability is not just a regional issue, it is a national imperative. With rising insecurity in the northern corridors and new economic frontiers opening under the AfCFTA, Kano’s role as both a fortress and a frontier must be preserved and enhanced.

The Federal Government has before it a rare convergence of opportunity and necessity: a progressive State leadership willing to collaborate and a moment demanding swift, strategic action.

To delay is to invite crisis. To act now is to safeguard the nation’s future. Because when Kano stands, Nigeria stands. Kano must never be allowed to fall.

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This piece is contributed by Barrister Aminu Hussaini, the Special Adviser on Justice/Constitutional Matters to His Excellency, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, Executive Governor of Kano State.

By Mike Odeh James

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has applauded the Governors of Bauchi and Kaduna States — Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed and Senator Uba Sani — for implementing reforms aimed at strengthening traditional leadership structures and ensuring fairness for long-marginalized communities.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Luka Binniyat, the MBF described Governor Bala Mohammed’s approval of 13 new Emirates and the long-awaited Zaar (Sayawa) Chiefdom as a “bold and historic” move that corrects decades of injustice and exclusion.

According to Binniyat, the creation of the Zaar Chiefdom brings to an end a century-long demand by the Zaar people for recognition of their cultural identity and self-governance. “For generations, the Zaar have sought official acknowledgment of their traditions and leadership. This development represents a long-overdue act of justice,” the Forum noted.

He explained that during the colonial period, the British placed the Zaar community under the Fulani Bauchi Emirate for administrative convenience — despite the Zaar never being conquered or assimilated by either Fulani or Kanuri rulers. This, he said, led to years of marginalization and sporadic conflict.

The MBF described the establishment of the Zaar Chiefdom and other new Emirates as “a testament to inclusive leadership,” restoring dignity and identity to numerous indigenous communities across Bauchi State.

The Forum also congratulated Brigadier-General Marcus Kokko Yake (rtd), who was installed as the first Gung-Zaar, urging the Zaar people to rally behind him in fostering peace, unity, and progress.

Similarly, the MBF welcomed the appointment of traditional rulers in the newly established Emirates, including:

• Emir of Duguri – Alhaji Adamu Mohammed
• Emir of Bununu – Alhaji Jibrin D. Hassan
• Emir of Toro – Alhaji Adamu Umar
• Emir of Lame – Alhaji Aliyu Yakubu Lame
• Emir of Ari – Alhaji Muhammad Kilishi Musa
• Emir of Burra – Alhaji Ya’u Shehu Abubakar
• Emir of Warji – Alhaji Ibrahim Samaila Boyi

In the same vein, the Forum commended Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani for ensuring a peaceful and transparent transition in the Ikulu Nation, following the appointment of His Royal Highness Mr. Sunday Bature Likoro as the new Agwam Ikulu III of Zangon Kataf Local Government Area.

Binniyat described Governor Sani’s handling of the succession process as exemplary, noting that the new monarch’s wealth of experience and understanding of his people would promote reconciliation and stability in Southern Kaduna.

The Middle Belt Forum concluded by urging traditional leaders and their communities in Bauchi and Kaduna States to work together in promoting peace, inclusiveness, and regional development for the overall progress of the Middle Belt.

A trailblazing Spelling Bee Competition has been launched in Kaduna State to promote literacy and academic excellence among students, in honour of Governor Uba Sani.

The initiative, fully sponsored and driven by Barrister Aisha Ahmad Mohammad, Secretary of the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS), is designed to inspire healthy academic competition and reward excellence across the state’s three zones.

She disclosed that all arrangements for the Zone 1 event have reached an advanced stage. She added that the competition will proceed to Zones 2 and 3, culminating in a State Grand Finale where the overall champion — known as the Gwani — will emerge.

“Each zone will have its own prizes,” she said, “and in addition, there will be the Speaker Abbas Prize, a capital project award to be executed in the best-performing schools in both the Junior and Senior categories.”

“This is about giving our children confidence through knowledge — empowering them to dream big and excel,” Barrister Aisha explained.

She called on all Local Government Chairmen to give their full support and blessings for the success of the programme, describing it as a pioneer effort to rekindle the reading culture and strengthen the foundation of literacy in Kaduna State.

Barrister Aisha further revealed that the semi-final rounds will take place across the Local Government Areas in November, while the Grand Finale will be held in Zaria, Insha Allah, in January.

Although privately sponsored, the initiative aligns with Governor Uba Sani’s broader human capital development agenda, which prioritizes education, youth empowerment, and equal learning opportunities as the pillars of Kaduna State’s sustainable progress.

The Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), under the leadership of Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi as Director General, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with UNIDACO Limited, London, for an initial €100 million investment in Nigeria’s energy sector.

The signing, held at the House of Lords, London, during the Renewed Hope Global Dialogue (UK Edition), marks a major milestone in advancing Nigeria’s clean energy transition.

According to Dr. Abdullahi, “this partnership underscores our commitment to expanding renewable energy access, driving innovation, and strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to harness clean technologies.

“Moreover, it aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly on sustainable energy solutions as a catalyst for economic growth and development,” Abdullahi stated.

He further disclosed that “this distinctive MoU was signed in the presence of dignitaries and investors of repute from Nigeria and across the world.

“Overall, this milestone reaffirms our resolve to deepen global partnerships that will accelerate Nigeria’s energy transformation. Together, we are charting a new course toward an inclusive, energy-secure, and prosperous nation built on innovation and collaboration,” he restated.

The Kaduna State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has emphatically rejected as null and void the purported expulsion of its Acting Chairman, Hon. Ahmed Tijjani Mustapha, and several other senior party officials in the state.

In a statement issued on Monday, October 27, 2025, and signed by the State Publicity Secretary, Engr. Idris Musa, the party described the alleged expulsion as a desperate ploy by individuals who, according to the ADC, are not bona fide members of the party.

Engr. Musa asserted that the people behind the purported expulsion are members of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Kaduna State but have been masquerading as ADC members to hijack the party’s structure in the state and across the North-West zone.

“We wish to inform all well-meaning and duly registered members of the ADC in Kaduna State to disregard the said expulsion, as it is considered null and void,” the statement said.

“The action appears to be a desperate attempt by individuals who are not members of the ADC but are struggling to take over the party under the guise of coalition partners. It’s either you are in the ADC or you are out,” the statement added.

The party further linked the alleged expulsion to a pending legal case — Suit No. FCT/HC/GAR/CV/383/2025 — filed at the FCT High Court in Abuja, which reportedly challenges the dual membership status of former Kaduna State Governor Malam Nasir El-Rufai and others.

Engr. Musa noted that the move against the state leadership, including Hon. Ahmed Tijjani Mustapha, Engr. Idris Musa, Alhaji Suleiman Abdulkadir, and Barr. Danlami Dabai, was a “fight-back” by those affected by the legal action.

The statement urged ADC members across Kaduna State to remain calm and law-abiding while the matter is before the court.

“We will not join issues with these individuals, especially in view of the pending case at the FCT High Court in Abuja. Our party will continue to operate in accordance with its Constitution and principles, and we will not be swayed by the antics of desperate politicians,” it stated.

The ADC reaffirmed its commitment to internal democracy, the rule of law, and the unity of its members in Kaduna State and beyond.

Former Kaduna Central lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani, has cautioned Islamic clerics to be vigilant and wary of the vain promises and deceitful tactics often employed by politicians during election periods.

Speaking during an interactive session with Islamic scholars across the 23 local government areas of Kaduna, Senator Sani urged clerics to resist inducements and political manipulation aimed at winning their support for selfish political interests.

He, however, called on Islamic clerics across Kaduna State to support the re-election bid of Governor Uba Sani, whom he described as a leader committed to good governance and responsive to the needs of the people.

According to the former senator, Governor Uba Sani has demonstrated a high sense of responsibility and dedication to addressing the yearnings of citizens since assuming office nearly two years ago.

Senator Sani further encouraged the clerics to unite in identifying and presenting the major needs of the Muslim community—such as the renovation of mosques, establishment of Islamic schools, and support for orphanages—to the government in a structured and coordinated manner.

He warned religious leaders to beware of political figures who only seek their support during elections and neglect them thereafter.

“The era of deceit and the use-and-dump approach to Islamic clerics is over,” Senator Sani declared.

He appealed to the religious leaders to continue praying for Governor Uba Sani and to support his administration, describing the governor as a listening and visionary leader committed to the development of Kaduna State.

In their brief remarks, several Islamic clerics commended Senator Sani for taking the bold step to convene such a meeting, which they said exposed the deceitful tendencies of some politicians.

They also pledged to use their influence as mobilisers to support credible leaders with proven records of capacity and performance in future elections.

By: Barrister Aminu Hussaini Sagagi

“Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration has marked two years of impactful leadership, transforming Kano State with notable progress. Barrister Aminu Hussaini Sagagi, Special Adviser on Justice and Constitutional Matters, highlights how AKY’s purposeful drive shifted Kano’s narrative from decline to dynamism, leaving a positive footprint across the state.”

When the chronicles of Kano’s modern history are written, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf (AKY) will be remembered as the leader who broke barriers, challenged complacency, and redefined what purposeful governance can achieve. In just two eventful years, the AKY administration has embarked on an unprecedented mission to rebuild, restore, and renew the ancient city — bulldozing through decades of neglect, obstacles, and cynicism with a vision anchored on people-centered development.

Breaking the Mold: From Tradition to Transformation

Kano, the pride of Northern Nigeria and the region’s commercial heartbeat, had long grappled with urban decay, unemployment, and institutional decline. Many saw the system as too entrenched to change. But Governor AKY came into office with a bulldozer’s resolve — committed to sweeping away stagnation and building a new Kano founded on transparency, inclusion, and progress.
His mantra, “development against all odds,” has guided an administration focused not on politics, but on practical results that touch everyday lives.

Infrastructure Renewal: Roads, Bridges, and a Brighter Kano

Under Governor AKY’s leadership, infrastructure development has assumed new urgency. The Kano Urban Renewal Project continues to transform the metropolis through the reconstruction and expansion of key roads, modern roundabouts, and improved traffic management systems. But beyond roads, one of the administration’s most visible achievements is the widespread installation of solar-powered street lighting systems across major highways, inner streets, and communities. Across every road in the metropolis, the new lights have not only enhanced nighttime aesthetics but have also boosted security and extended economic activity after dark, revitalizing nightlife and trade in a city once plunged into darkness. The Governor’s commitment to safety and visibility has made Kano’s nights brighter, indeed!

Education and Human Capital: Reviving Dreams, Rebuilding Institutions

No sector demonstrates AKY’s reformist spirit better than education. Recognizing that a society’s future lies in the strength of its learning institutions, the Governor launched a massive campaign to revitalize abandoned and closed tertiary and technical institutions across the state.
Campuses once left in ruins — from Audu Bako College of Agriculture to Kano State Polytechnic satellite campuses and skills acquisition centers — have been reopened, renovated, and re-equipped. Thousands of young people have returned to classrooms and workshops that had been silent for years.

Through these efforts, the administration has breathed life back into the state’s educational ecosystem, creating new pathways for youth empowerment, technical training, and self-reliance.
Complementing this is the revival of scholarship programs and targeted investments in primary and secondary schools, ensuring that education remains accessible from the grassroots upward.

Restoring Order: Combating Drug Abuse, Idleness, and Hooliganism

Governor AKY’s vision for a new Kano goes beyond physical renewal; it extends to the moral and social rebirth of its people. Confronted with the rising menace of drug abuse, youth idleness, hooliganism, and phone-snatching crimes, his administration has mounted an aggressive campaign to reclaim the streets and restore sanity.
Working hand-in-hand with security agencies, recently launched marshals, community leaders, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the State Government has intensified raids on drug hotspots, supported rehabilitation programs, and promoted widespread public awareness on the dangers of substance abuse. Simultaneously, through the reopening of skills acquisition centers and targeted youth empowerment schemes, thousands of at-risk youths have been redirected from the streets into productive engagement.
The combined effect of improved street lighting, community policing, and socio-economic intervention has drastically curtailed phone-snatching and gang-related violence, turning former hotspots of fear into safe and vibrant neighborhoods. This multi-layered approach to youth reform embodies the Governor’s belief that progress is meaningless if not accompanied by peace, discipline, and hope.

Healthcare and Human Dignity

Governor AKY’s people-oriented governance extends deeply into the health sector. His administration has rehabilitated general hospitals and primary health centers, provided modern equipment, and recruited medical personnel to fill critical gaps. The Free Medical Outreach Program, introduced in 2024, has delivered life-saving services to thousands of indigent residents — reinforcing the government’s belief that healthcare is a right, not a privilege.

Environmental Renewal and Urban Cleanliness

Just recently known for its waste-choked streets and blocked drainages, Kano has undergone a quiet environmental revolution. The revival of the Refuse Management and Sanitation Board (REMASAB) has restored discipline and hygiene to public spaces. Likewise, regular waste collection, re-greening projects, and the rehabilitation of parks have improved urban living standards, while the city’s beautification drives are giving Kano a new and modern face.

Empowering the People: Youths, Women, and Enterprise

Governor AKY’s inclusive governance places ordinary citizens at the heart of progress. Through the Kano Empowerment and Skills Support Scheme, thousands of women, youths, and artisans have received tools, equipment, and grants to start or expand small businesses. From tailoring and welding to ICT and automotive training, the State’s renewed skills acquisition centers now serve as hubs of innovation — transforming job seekers into job creators.

Governance with Integrity and Accountability

Governor AKY’s administration stands out for its commitment to transparency and participatory governance. Financial prudence, open procurement processes, and community consultations have restored public trust in leadership.
Traditional rulers, civil society, and youth representatives are now partners in planning and implementation, ensuring that policies reflect real community needs rather than elite preferences.

Defying the Odds, Defining a Legacy

The journey has not been without resistance — from political opposition to bureaucratic bottlenecks — yet, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has continued to bulldoze through challenges with focus and conviction. His results speak for themselves: a brighter city, safer streets, revived schools, empowered youths, cleaner environments, and restored public trust.
Two years on, the message is clear — leadership anchored on sincerity and courage can indeed transform even the most complex societies.

A Vision Beyond Two Years

As Kano looks ahead, the foundations of a new era have been firmly laid. Governor AKY’s vision extends beyond his tenure — toward a state that thrives on knowledge, peace, and productivity. From the glow of new streetlights to the hum of reopened institutions, from the discipline of reformed youths to the smiles of empowered citizens, Kano’s transformation is real and visible.
The facts carry one enduring truth: when leadership bulldozes obstacles with sincerity and courage, transformation becomes inevitable.

Barrister Aminu Sagagi, SA Justice/Constitutional Matters, sent this piece from Kano.

Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has pledged full support to the family of the late human rights activist, Comrade Abiodun Aremu, who recently died in a tragic hit-and-run incident in Ogun State.

Speaking through former lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani, who represented him at the burial ceremony held on Thursday in Sango-Ota, Ogun State, the governor described the late activist as a courageous fighter who dedicated his life to the struggle for democracy, justice, and human rights in Nigeria.

Governor Sani extolled Comrade Aremu’s steadfastness during the dark years of military dictatorship, noting that his sacrifices and resilience contributed immensely to the democratic freedom Nigerians enjoy today.

“Comrade Aremu was a man of conviction and courage who stood on the side of truth, even in the face of intimidation and persecution. His contributions to the pro-democracy struggle will never be forgotten,” Governor Uba Sani stated.

The burial ceremony attracted a large turnout of prominent activists and civil society leaders from across the country, including Chief Femi Falana (SAN), Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, and representatives of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), and Trade Union Congress (TUC), as well as veteran student leaders such as Segun Maiyegun.

In his tribute, Chief Femi Falana (SAN) described the deceased as “one of Nigeria’s most consistent and principled activists,” recalling how he was imprisoned during the pro-democracy struggle and led campaigns for the release of detained rights icons such as Chief Gani Fawehinmi and Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti.

Other speakers reflected on shared moments from the 1990s struggles, recalling how Uba Sani, then an activist himself, coordinated the activities of the Campaign for Democracy (CD) and worked closely with Comrade Aremu and other movement leaders in the fight against military rule.

They also commended the Kaduna governor for standing by the family of his late comrade, describing the gesture as a demonstration of genuine solidarity and enduring commitment to the ideals of social justice.

Governor Sani, in his message, urged the younger generation to emulate Comrade Aremu’s passion for justice, courage in the face of adversity, and unwavering commitment to the enthronement of true democracy in Nigeria.

Late Comrade Abiodun Aremu, who was the Secretary of the Joint Action Front (JAF) — the umbrella body for pro-labour civil society organisations — reportedly died on October 12 after being knocked down by a vehicle near his residence in Ota, Ogun State. He was 65 years old.

In the appointment of Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi as the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), stakeholders roundly commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the choice of this astute and result oriented energy expert and policy strategist, a visionary administrator.

The saying that a golden fish has no hiding place aptly qualifies Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi’s appointment by His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR , who was able to spot the energy poster boy, and placed him strategically where competence meets passion.

Indeed, the appointment of Dr. Abdullahi as the Director General of Energy Commission qualifies the saying of putting a round peg in a round hole.

Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi who combines academic distinction with hands-on experience in energy systems, regulation, and innovation, has variously been described by stakeholders as a key figure in shaping Nigeria’s energy future, scoring a vital point in the Renewed Hope Initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which clearly aims to resuscitate and reinvigorate the country’s energy sector.

As an avid scholar who holds a master’s and a doctorate in Engineering from the prestigious University of Manchester who has also served as a Research Associate and Teaching Assistant in the School of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Civil Engineering in same institution, Dr. Abdullahi’s penchant for excellence is distinctive and highly commendable.

As a Chartered Engineer (CEng) and a member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (MIMechE), Dr. Abdullahi has distinguished himself in ways so uncommon and achievements quite alluring.
His commitment to professional excellence and technical innovation underscores his capacity and capabilities in delivering on the mandate of the Energy Sector and the Commission generally.

As a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Manchester, United kingdom, from 2021 to 2023, Dr. Abdullahi conducted an impactful research entitled “Assessment of the Structural Integrity,” contributing valuable insights to the field. His work was recognized and supported by the Industry Collaboration Fund, United kingdom, highlighting his commitment to advancing knowledge through industry-academia collaboration.

Dr. Abdullahi has over 14 years of experience in Nigeria’s energy sector, particularly within the oil and gas industry and is known to have spent a significant part of his career at the Department of Petroleum Resources (now the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission -NUPRC), contributing to regulatory policy, energy systems management, and sustainability initiatives.

His technical competence is further complemented by his role at the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), where he engaged in research and development at the intersection of space and energy technology.

Before being appointed as Director-General of ECN, Dr. Abdullahi served as the Senior Technical Adviser to the former Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji. In that capacity, he was instrumental in shaping national policies that promoted innovation, renewable energy adoption, and scientific advancement.

His advisory role provided strategic direction for programmes aimed at building Nigeria’s technological capacity in line with global sustainability trends.

He is widely reputed to be a multi-disciplinary leader, with a systems-thinking approach to Nigeria’s energy challenges, integrating insights from engineering, space research, and policy.

Since assuming office as Director General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria ECN in 2023, keen observers say his leadership at the Commission is anchored in collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and a strong commitment to energy transition and security.

Dr. Abdullahi is focused on delivering sustainable, inclusive, and technology-driven energy solutions that support national development goals and align with international climate commitments.

Asides from his professional and academic accomplishments, he is also active in the politics of his country, Nigeria. He is a founding member and co-convener of The Asiwaju Group (TAG), one of the leading support groups for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also having served as Deputy Chairman of the All Progressives Congress United Kingdom (APC UK) chapter, he is also an Executive Member of the APC UK since February 2014.

As a committed and loyal party chieftain, Abdullahi’s political engagements include membership in the APC Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) 2023, the APC PCC Nigeria Strategic Communication Committee (2019), and the APC National Convention Sub-Committee (2022).

He is widely respected for his integrity, strategic vision, and passion for sustainable development. His dynamic experience across sectors positions him as a transformative leader at the helm of Nigeria’s energy transition journey.

A peek into his two years stint as the Director General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria ECN reveals amazing achievements such as:

• Implementation of the Renewed Hope Solarization Project for the provision of 2 MW of a solar hybrid system in 37 universities and 37 tertiary hospitals across the 36 states and Abuja.
  (2025)
  Signed a Memorandum of Understanding with China Energy Engineering Corporation to boost renewable energy and address Nigeria’s energy challenges by establishing State Energy Planning Implementation Units in all the 36 states in Nigeria.

(2025)
Signed an agreement with LONGI a China solar module manufacturer to establish a manufacturing plant of their new solar panel technology in Nigeria.

(2025)
Launched the Compendium on Industrial Energy Efficiency Policies with the collaboration of UNIDO and GEF.

(2025)
Commissioned a Hybrid 5 kilowatts solar-powered Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station.

(2025)
Promotion of clean cooking and obtaining a Patent for developing a Hexagonal Type Domestic Charcoal Stove for improved thermal efficiency.

(2025)
Signed an MOU with a Chinese company to establish a Lithium battery production plant in Nigeria.

(2024)
Launched the newly gazette National Energy Policy (NEP)and National Energy Master Plan (NEMP) by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

(2024)
Establishment of a 10MW Solar PV Module Production Assembly Plant at Enugu Research Centre.

(2024)
Development of Pyrolysis Machine for Hydrogen Generation at Bauchi Research Centre.

(2024)
Establishment of a Pilot Bioethanol Plant with Fractional Distillation Unit at Benin Research Centre.

(2024)
Development of Pilot Integrated Modular Refinery at Bauchi Research Centre.

(2024)
The Energy Commission of Nigeria in collaboration with the FMIST on Implementation of the National Policy on Methanol Fuel Production from Gas.

(2024)
Launch of the Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for air conditioners in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme, United for Efficiency initiative, and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria.

(2024)
Launched a Computerized National Energy Information System website in Collaboration with the ECOWAS Commission.

(2024)
Establishment of a Pilot Green Hydrogen Plant as a policy target of domestication and localization of Green Energy in the country.

(2024)
Establishment of Barefoot Renewable Energy College in Kogi State.

(2024)
The Energy Commission of Nigeria’s participation as the National Focal point at the Brazil G202024 Energy Transitions Working Group Meetings to negotiate and endorse Principles for Just and Inclusive Energy Transitions.

(2024)
Launched the implementation of the project titled ‘Abating Greenhouse Gas Emissions From Obsolete Refrigerators and Air Conditioners Equipment (AGORA) in Nigeria with the
collaboration of UNDP and UNEP.

(2024)
The Nigeria Energy and Emission Pathway Calculator 2050 (NECAL 2050)(2024) Comprehensive Energy Audit for the University of Lagos, Akoka carried out by National Centre for Energy Efficiency and Conservation.

(2024)
Designed, Constructed and Installed Two (2) 5kW Wind Turbines located at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto (UDUS), Sokoto State.

(2023)
Design and development of the 24-CUP Pelton Wheel Single-Jet Small Hydropower Turbine System and the Split Cup Pelton Wheel Two-Jet Small Hydropower Turbine System by NACHRED, University of llorin)

(2023)
Design, Construction and Testing energy-efficient biomass Cookstoves by National Centre for Energy Research and Development, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

(2023)
Development of Small, Medium and Commercial scale Solar Powered Chicken Brooding systems.

These achievements of Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi have been variously described as the footprints of a man of greatness, vision and exemplary leadership, deserving of commendation.
 

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